Hazardous Weather Alert: Winter Storm Virgil Promises Snow (But 50s in Sight)

West Des Moines and the rest of central Iowa could get up to 5 inches of snow from Virgil, a late winter storm poised to move into the area by late afternoon or early evening and exit Sunday.

The National Weather Service in Des Moines has issued a winter weather advisory affecting about a third of the state, including Polk and Dallas counties in central Iowa. Gusty north winds could cause some blowing and drifting of snow, the National Weather Service said.

In preparation for the storm, the city of West Des Moines is declaring that an Emergency Parking Ban for Snow Removal will go into effect at 10 p.m. Saturday and remain in effect until 5 p.m. Sunday.

The Emergency Parking Ban applies to all streets in West Des Moines.  During an Emergency Parking Ban for Snow Removal, cars are subject to a $50 fine and/or towing.

If you’re heading out during the advisory period, check 511ia.org for the latest travel information.

Winter looks to linger on for a few days according to the forecast for West Des Moines:

But take heart. The seven-day forecast has West Des Moines nearing the 50-degree mark on Good Friday under partly sunny skies.